Open a Bank Account 

A bank account is one of the safest places to keep your compensation payment.  

 

A basic chequing account lets you store your money safely and gives you access when you need it. You can open an account by visiting a bank or credit union in person, calling by phone, or applying online.  

 

Some banks waive fees for Indigenous clients. When setting up your account, ask about services especially for Indigenous people and remote banking. 

 

Banks and credit unions let you take money out of your account for free. You can also use a debit card to make purchases without the need for cash. 

 

 

Additional Resources

For additional resources related to planning for your compensation payment, visit the resources page on the Indian Boarding Homes Class Action website. 

 

 

Setting Goals for Your Compensation Payment 

Your compensation can be used in many ways. Planning ahead helps your money last longer and supports what matters to you. 

 

• Save Money: Put some money aside for emergencies and future needs. 

• Gift Money: If you choose to help family, friends, or community—make sure your own needs are covered too.

• Pay Down Debt: Paying off loans or bills can reduce stress and give you more freedom.
• Money for Personal Wellness: Use some money to take care of yourself, like for rest, food, travel, or healing.

 

Source: AFOA Canada

 

 

Budget 

A budget is a plan for how you will use your money. It helps you carry out the goals you set—like saving, investing, giving, or paying off debt, and helps you make sure you have enough for what you need now and later.  

 

A budget doesn’t need to be fancy.  

 

Even a simple list of how much you want to spend on each goal can help your money last longer and reduce stress. 

On the claim form you will select whether to receive a cheque or have the payment deposited directly into a bank account. 

 

The bank account must be in your name to prevent fraud or misdirected payments. 

 

 

When Will I Get Paid? 

Once your claim is received, you’ll get an acknowledgment. The Claims Administrator will review your claim to see if you’re eligible for compensation. You can check your claim’s status by phone, email, or mail.  

 

Category 1 claims are reviewed first, and Category 2 claims will follow. If anything is missing from your claim, the Claims Administrator will let you know. Make sure to update your contact information if it changes before you get paid. 

 

It’s important to ensure your money is safe. Here are some tips: 

 

• Strangers and Scams: Be wary of phone calls or emails that say they can ‘help’ with your claim. Only trust the Claims Administrator or your lawyer. If in doubt, call 1-888-499-1144.
• Friends & Family: While it’s natural to want to share or help, be thoughtful about how you manage your payment to ensure it supports your needs first.
• Cheque Cashing Services: Avoid using cheque cashing services as they often charge high fees, which means you’ll keep less of your money.

 

Note: Your compensation is not taxable. It will not affect social assistance, disability payments, or other income support. 

Contact the Claims Administrator 

For personal assistance or more information about the class action settlement, the filing process, or claims forms, contact the Claims Administrator. 

1-888-499-1144 

Claims@boardinghomesclassaction.com 

www.boardinghomesclassaction.com 

ATTN: Indian Boarding Homes Class Action

PwC Management Services LP 

2500-18 York Street  

Toronto, Ontario M5J 9Z9

 

 

Mental Health Support 

Hope for Wellness 

Open 24 hours a day | 7 days a week  

1-855-242-3310  

www.hopeforwellness.ca 

 

 

Foundation

In addition to individual compensation, the settlement requires Canada to create a $50 million dollar Healing Foundation to support survivors and their families on their healing journeys.